6 points to consider before applying for a ski season job

Deciding and applying to do a ski season is an exciting process but if you accept that first job offer that comes along, you may find your party animal mentality stuck in a quiet French hamlet for 5 months.

Before sending out those CV’s, take a minute to consider these points which will hopefully set you on the way to finding a sweet job for the season.

#1. What kind of job are you looking for?

This will dictate your whole season – from how much mountain time you get, to the types of company you could work for, to how much you’ll get paid.

An easy decision if you are qualified with a skill (chefs/nannies/instructors) but if your a multi-tasker – consider whether you would be more suited to working in a bar or ski shop than the classic chalet host job.

#3. What kind of resort are you hoping to work in?

If your working in a large team, a small resort may not necessarily be a drawback.

On my first 3 ski seasons, I worked and lived in a hamlet which was a 20-minute drive from the decent sized French resort of Morzine.

Despite having no access to a bar after the cheerful Frenchman shut his doors at 7pm, our team of 25 regularly got creative, hosting a murder mystery party and quiz nights, bin bag sledging and even building our own freestyle park complete with an ice bar and fire pit.

#4. What size (and kind) of company would you like to work for?

If you’ve not done a season before, applying to one of the big tour operators is the easy option but do consider if you mind effectively being a ‘number’ in a large team.

Spend some time researching different companies, apply for a few roles and if you are unsure, go to a few interviews and have a chat with the team to see who best matches your season requirements.

Check out the companies social media accounts too – some companies may have interviews or takeovers from current staff members which will give you an insight into the company.

Also, check to see if reviews have been left by past guests on Facebook or TripAdvisor to see if there are any potential problems in the team or company.

Small companies may also specialise in certain areas, for example, family skiing, gourmet skiing or snowboarding – consider if you have a particular passion or interest you’d like to develop during the season.

I’m waving the flag for working for a small company (having worked for three previously) who often have a real passion for providing a memorable holiday for guests and a worthwhile season for their staff.

On the flip side, if the small team doesn’t gel together it can make for a long and awkward season

#5. Working for an independent chalet/business vs working for a large company/tour operator